Ohio State to recognize Thad Matta at halftime of Butler exhibition
Former Ohio State and Butler coach Thad Matta will be recognized at halftime of the Oct. 25 exhibition game between the two teams. Here's why.
Ohio State plans to honor Thad Matta, their all-time winningest men's basketball coach, during halftime of their exhibition game against Butler on October 25. Matta, who compiled a 337-123 record from 2004-17 and won five Big Ten titles, is prominently featured in the Schottenstein Center's rafters. The idea for the halftime ceremony came from a conversation between Ohio State coach Jake Diebler and Butler assistant coach Jon Diebler, a former Ohio State player.
The two coaches, now retired, share a close relationship, evidenced by their family ties and shared impact on the programs. Jake Diebler plans to incorporate Matta's former players into the halftime experience, with the possibility of Matta even drawing up a play on the court.
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